Cowpea chlorotic mottle virus (CCMV) ELISA Kit

Cowpea Chlorotic Mottle Virus (CCMV) is a plant virus of the Bromoviridae. It's small, round, with an icosahedral protein capid around 28 nm in diameter. The capsid is a collection of 180 of the same protein molecules, grouped into pentamers and hexagons. The genome of the virus is positive-sense single-stranded RNA (around 3000 nucleotides long) that is split into four segments, RNA-1, RNA-2, RNA-3 and a subgenome, RNA-4. These segments encode proteins essential for viral replication and movement within the host plant.

Figure 1. 3D model of the capsid of CCMV
(Source: Tscheuschner G, et al. 2023)

The virus is also important for applications in nanotechnology because of its resistant capsid, capable of containing different molecular cargoes for specific targeted therapy. This pH-dependent self-assemble is a particularly striking characteristic of CCMV virus-like particles (VLPs). Specifically, CCMV nanoparticles disassemble at neutral pH and spontaneously reassemble in acidic conditions (pH 5), even without the viral genome. This reversible mechanism can be utilized for encapsulating different types of cargo. The ability of CCMV VLPs to deliver siRNA and other RNA molecules intracellularly was recently shown in several recent studies. As an example, researchers have shown that CCMV can achieve loading rates as high as 80% for antisense oligonucleotides used in gene silencing therapies for disease states such as AMD.

Moreover, the versatility of CCMV VLPs extends beyond mere encapsulation. Scientists are working out how to modify the surface of these particles so that they are more tamped for their targets. If you glue specific ligands or peptides to the capsid surface, you can aim these nanoparticles at certain cell types or tissues and thus get more accurate delivery of drugs. This selective approach doesn't only maximise therapeutic activity; it also reduces side effects by limiting off-target effects on healthy cells.

CCMV ELISA Kit